Idiopathic hemorrhagic vasculopathy syndrome in seven black rhinoceros

Idiopathic hemorrhagic vasculopathy syndrome (IHVS) was diagnosed in 7 black rhinoceros; this newly described syndrome is characterized by severe body swelling in conjunction with a rapid and profound decrease in Hct. The disorder may be acute or chronic, may recur, and is potentially fatal. Five of the rhinoceros survived an initial episode of IHVS, and 2 of these 5 survived a recurrent episode of IHVS. Two rhinoceros died during treatment of IHVS. Treatment protocols varied, but all 7 rhinoceros received broad-spectrum antibiotics, because an infectious cause was suspected. All rhinoceros also received nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs and supportive care. Idiopathic hemorrhagic vasculopathy syndrome has many similarities to other vasculopathies of domestic animals, such as equine purpura hemorrhagica, but it also appears to have unique identifying features. It has been hypothesized that IHVS may be an immune response to an as yet unidentified infectious agent. Thorough and extensive testing has not identified the potential causative agent, nor the factors that predispose some black rhinoceros to developing IHVS. Further research into the rhinoceros immune system is ongoing and should help elucidate the mechanisms through which IHVS develops.